Welcome

The Jennings County Historical Society is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 organization. Our mission is to "present, preserve and document the history of Jennings County." The North American House, society headquarters and historical museum, offers a high-quality history center in the old time arts with programs designed to teach and display the evolution of Jennings County. Thousands of unique artifacts are on display and an archives of historical documents/photos may be used upon request.

The museum, which is owned and maintained by the historical society, was built in 1838 as a Stagecoach Stop and Inn. The Society sponsors 3 major events/festivals, which bring more tourists to Jennings County than any other organization. Over 20,000 tourists visit Society sponsored programs and events. The whole county realizes an economic impact from the Society's festivals. All event proceeds are used to maintain the museum and preserve the county's rich heritage. For more information on these events, check out the Events tab.

 Planning a visit to the museum or want to arrange a tour for a group? We are open every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 11am-4pm, during festivals, or by appointment. Admission is free. To contact the museum, please call (812) 346-8989. If you need to talk to someone on a day when the museum is closed, you may email us at jenninghistoricalsocity@gmail.com or contact Jennings County Historical Society Curator, Chris Asher at (812) 350-7081 or County Historian Sheila Kell at (812) 346-1806 or Volunteer Lou Malcomb at (812) 320-7620. We are always looking for and welcoming new volunteers to help with the museum.

 Where are we located? Vernon, Indiana is located approximately midway between Louisville, Kentucky, Indianapolis, Indiana and Cincinnati, Ohio. From Interstate 65, take the Seymour/North Vernon Exit east to North Vernon on US Hwy 50. At the junction of US Hwy 50 and Hwys 3/7, travel south approximately two miles to Vernon. We are located across the street at the northeast corner of the Jennings County Courthouse, one of Indiana's oldest courthouses.  

Jennings County is located in southeastern Indiana and is home to just over 27,000. The county seat of Vernon, founded in 1815, is the smallest in the state and home to a courthouse dating back to 1860. The entire town is registered as a historic district. 

Located in the museum, our gift shop is where visitors can purchase books, pamphlets, and other items connected to the history of Jennings County.